Makuleke as I see it …

Tucked away in the far North of Kruger National Park, hugged by two rivers and littered with baobabs, lies a truly remarkable piece of land: 26 000ha of pristine wilderness, as rich in ecological biodiversity as it is in cultural history.

Vaughn-_Sunrise-at-Lanner-Gorge-Makuleke

I first set foot in the Makuleke Concession, also known as the Pafuri Triangle, one unusually balmy day in July a few years ago. I had just embarked on a life-changing adventure, a transition from an overworked and underpaid diesel mechanic on South Africa’s platinum mines to an intrepid trails guide and all-around quality South African safari guide. Well, at least that’s what I thought at the time.

I had no idea of the rollercoaster ride of self-discovery, laughter, tears, love and friendship that lay ahead of me.

Looking back on an unbelievable couple of years, there is without a doubt, one element that stands out. The starting point and solid bedrock of my personal journey. A constant in a continually changing and evolving set of memories, decisions and chances. Makuleke.

Makuleke-_Elephant-youngster_Vaughn-du-Plooy

Sure, I understand, how can I possibly expect you to believe that a piece of land can have such a profound effect on a person’s life?

I mean, when you break it down and strip it bare, it is merely a bunch of biotic and abiotic components reacting and inter-reacting, creating relationships and inter-relationships and forming a canvas on which a picture of life can be painted …

Makuleke-_Sunset_Vaughn-dP

But Makuleke is not just another piece of land. It is an expertly woven tapestry with a beauty and complexity very rarely seen. It is a small piece of wild heaven, a big step back into Old Africa. It is a place where magic not only exists but where you can see it every single day.

Join me on a walk through the heart of one of South Africa’s last true remaining wilderness areas, as Alan McSmith and I try to shine a gentle light of understanding on some of the secrets of the ebb and flow of life and history, in the unique and truly memorable Makuleke Concession.

About the Author:
Annemi Zaaiman

Annemi Zaaiman

Explore more

Instructor Richard Davis giving a lecture to several students in nature
Blog

Wildlife Conservation with EcoTraining

EcoTraining showcases its commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental preservation by promoting sustainable practices and educating people about protecting endangered species. EcoTraining sets the bar high with its courses, trains field guides, and instils a sense of responsibility towards nature and wildlife.

Read more
a group of students looking at tracks in the sand
Blog

Understanding Wildlife Tracking

The ancient art of tracking unveils the secrets of animal behaviour. We explore the key steps of identifying, interpreting, and tracking wild animals in the heart of the South African wilderness.

“Do not be afraid to get dirty. Get down on your knees and have a close look at the tracks. It is essential to take your time. You can make a mistake by being too quick on the trigger when identifying tracks,” said Gerhard Delport, a former EcoTracker student.

Read more
students at lanner gorge
Blog

EcoTraining Celebrates 30 Years of Excellence

Thirty years of EcoTraining is a significant milestone. This celebration is a testament to EcoTraining’s long history of promoting field guiding and wildlife conservation. It’s an opportunity to inspire the next generation of passionate individuals who will continue the legacy of creating guardians of the natural world.

Read more

Start your wildlife career

Want to become a field or nature guide? Explore our immersive courses and training programmes for professional safari guides and guardians of nature, taught and led by experts in the industry.

EcoTraining offers career and accredited courses, wildlife enthusiast courses, gap year programmes and customised group travel courses.

Join our nature-loving community.